Oklahomans are being asked to take a simple step that could make a big impact: turn off unnecessary lights at night.
For its second year, the Lights Out Oklahoma campaign is encouraging individuals and businesses to reduce nighttime lighting during peak migration periods, helping birds safely travel through the state along the Central Flyway.
Led by the Oklahoma Animal Coalition and supported by the Oklahoma City Zoo and Botanical Garden, the initiative highlights how artificial light disrupts migratory birds, often causing them to become disoriented and collide with buildings or power lines.
“Many people don’t realize the challenges birds face at night,” said Dr. Rebecca Snyder with the OKC Zoo. “As light pollution increases, it’s significantly impacting their flight patterns.”
When to turn lights off
The campaign recommends switching off or dimming non-essential lights between 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. during peak spring migration, which runs April 15 through May 31.
Beyond helping wildlife, organizers say the effort can also lower energy use and save money.
Why it matters
Recent research published in Science found that nearly half of North American bird species studied have experienced significant population declines. While light pollution isn’t the primary cause, it adds to growing pressures like habitat loss and climate change—especially across southern and Midwestern states, including Oklahoma.
The campaign also points to ripple effects: artificial light disrupts nighttime insect activity, reducing food sources for birds and bats and ultimately affecting broader ecosystems.
A growing statewide effort
Lights Out Oklahoma is supported by a wide network of conservation groups, schools and nonprofits, marking its first major public awareness campaign since forming.
Get involved
More information on how to participate is available through the OKC Zoo’s website.
The zoo will also host a Bird Awareness Day on May 2, featuring family-friendly activities, conservation education and caretaker talks.